Extravagant expectations
If embassy level security, round-the-clock concierge service and a Michelin Star quality restaurant are your requirements, then look no further than One Grosvenor Square, Mayfair. The 44 beautifully designed residences benefit from 10,000 sq. ft of world-class amenities. The development is situated on one of London’s grandest squares, close to The Chancery Rosewood Hotel, located on the site of the iconic former U.S. Embassy, which is due to open in 2024.
Matthew Huybrechts, Director at Dexters Mayfair, says, “There’s a new generation with uber wealth through tech, finance, art and social media who want 24-hour security and porterage. They live a ‘concierge lifestyle’ and are looking for this in the developments where they buy or rent. For example, parking alone is not enough, this clientele need luxury valet servicing and secure parking spaces for their Ferrari or Bugatti which are also wide enough for the Rolls Royce Phantom or the supercar next on their wish list.”
Fabulous facilities
Twenty Grosvenor Square is the flagship Four Seasons Residences in Europe and, as such, the 37 large apartments benefit from world leading hotel services including in-residence dining and housekeeping. Amenities include a screening room, wine room, childcare facilities, and a spa with a 25 metre pool.
“Most new builds are collaborating with luxury spa providers,” says Matthew. “They no longer just offer a sauna and Jacuzzi, there needs to be a health and wellness centre with a hydrotherapy area and private treatment rooms. Gone are the days of a gym in the basement, five-star developments need top of the range equipment, enough space for personal training, and air filtration systems. Given that most owners and tenants also have homes in other locations, the pool or gym facilities tend to have a very private feel.”
Complete convenience
Key for many residents are office facilities. Most prime developments have at least one 12 seater boardroom and a business suite with adjoining kitchen so a conference with catering can be held for up to 20 people. In Marble Arch, The Bryanston has extraordinary 360 degree views over Hyde Park and the capital, with all the provisions expected of a high-end development including a 25 metre swimming pool and a magical play space for children. The apartments at One Hyde Park, in the heart of Knightsbridge, have access to the five-star services of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel next door and in-house facilities include a virtual experience room.
Relax and unwind
Naturally, every convenience comes at a price. Matthew says, “At Clarges on 1 Ashburton Place in Mayfair, a two bedroom apartment can reach up to £8,000 per week to rent, with the larger apartments reaching up to £15,000 per week, and a purchase price in the region £14.5m.”
Price is not an issue to live at London’s best addresses as it seems prospective residents are often snapping up more than one property. Matthew explains, “We have clients with staff and, in addition to a family residence, they’ll request a studio in the same building for their chef and another for their nanny.”
Universally, the ultimate luxury lifestyle requires absolutely everything to be under one roof.
